Hidden Hops

This feature of  our Blog will consist of some Hidden Gems where a good selection of beer can be found. We will include restaurants, package stores (stores that sell beer), and sometimes just great beer and local breweries.

Today I would like to introduce to all to a wonderful Hidden Hop, Bottega Cucina, in West Springfield. The place is small, and can be missed easily. In fact, I never knew this place existed up until about 2 years ago.  Even though it's small, it's a great eatery.  The staff are friendly and accommodating, the chef's are creative and truly deliver.

As for pricing, well, it is Italian so you know fine dining might cost a little more than a burger joint. But please, don't let that deter you. I went there for a family dinner, and while waiting for everyone to show up, I decided to take a gander at the Menu, most importantly the beer selection. And I must say, I was quite impressed.

The selection was small for draft beers, maybe about 3 on draft at a time, but even their bottled selection knocks the pants off some of the main streamed eateries.  This is where I was introduced to one of my most favorite, and quite possibly one of the best Stouts out there, Old Rasputin. 

When I ordered it, I expected a frosty Mixer glass, you know the ones the bars serve beer in and you expect its actually a beer glass because it has a beer label on it. In reality the glass is intended for pouring a mixed drink, not to enjoy a good beer.  I was pleasantly taken aback when this delicious dark and savory beer was delivered to me in a tulip snifter.  Sipping that for the first time, on draft, in a well designed glass enhanced my experience. Honestly, restaurants that know how to serve beer are a rarity these days.

Thank you Bottega Cucina, you are a gem in West Springfield, and a Hidden Hop for Craft beer lovers.
Please see their link below for hours, menus, available beers and directions.

 #bm~nick @thebarleymen


http://www.bcucina.com/